Chemistry of Life

Front

What is adhesion?

Back

Adhesion is the attraction between water molecules and other substances.

Front

What is cohesion?

Back

Cohesion is the attraction between water molecules themselves.

Front

What is polarity in water?

Back

Polarity refers to the distribution of electrical charge in water molecules, making one end slightly positive and the other slightly negative.

Front

Why is water known as a universal solvent?

Back

Water is known as a universal solvent because it can dissolve more substances than any other liquid due to its polarity.

Front

What is the significance of hydrogen bonds in water?

Back

Hydrogen bonds are weak attractions between water molecules that contribute to water's unique properties, such as high surface tension.

Front

What is capillary action?

Back

Capillary action is the ability of water to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of external forces, due to adhesion and cohesion.

Front

What happens when a polar solute is placed in a non-polar solvent?

Back

The polar solute will not dissolve in the non-polar solvent.

Front

What is the density of ice compared to liquid water?

Back

Ice is less dense than liquid water, which is why it floats.

Front

How does water's high specific heat benefit aquatic life?

Back

Water's high specific heat helps maintain stable temperatures in aquatic environments, protecting organisms from temperature fluctuations.

Front

What role does water play in chemical reactions?

Back

Water acts as a reactant or product in many chemical reactions and is essential for biochemical processes.